I Am Ceo Podcast Powered By Cbnation.co & Blue 16 Media #iamceo

Gresham Harkless believes that the secret to happiness is different for everyone. While money and material things are essential to some extent, pursuing happiness has less to do with money and more with personal connections and meaningful work.   Gresham perceives someone more committed to the business could improve control and productivity.   He utilizes technology to stay efficient, relying on tools like Basecamp for project management, and emphasizes time management and prioritizing essential tasks.   Gresham started his business through BNI (Business Network International) and still values the relationship-building aspect of networking.   He discusses the importance of knowing your target market and selecting the right platforms based on your goals.    Gresham shares his experience with hiring through platforms like Upwork. He advocates bringing people on board before you need them, allowing you to refine your leadership skills and make better hiring decisions.   Podcast Link: Send it Rising Internet Mark

Fletcher Wimbush is the CEO of Discovered Performance Hiring Software, who has extensive experience in hiring practices and decades of experience tackling hiring challenges, including reference checking, aptitude assessments, and AI-driven talent selection.   Fletcher's system has helped over 2,000 companies and led to multi-million-dollar results in the hiring process.   Fletcher discusses that hiring the right people is the foundation of good leadership. This concept has driven much of his career and leadership philosophy.   He emphasizes the need for leaders to focus on people selection to build great teams, even in the early stages of entrepreneurship when resources are limited.   Fletcher also mentions the importance of understanding the differences between an entrepreneur, a manager, and a technician.   Fletcher advocates mastering tasks before delegating them and creating frameworks, systems, and processes to delegate.   In addition, he emphasizes the importance of becoming an entrepreneurial leader wh

Mark Anderson is a retired special agent and former instructor at the Inspector General Criminal Investigator Academy. He is an expert in interviewing and investigative techniques.    Mark is the Director of Training and Development at Anderson Investigative Associates. He has worked with the FBI, NRC, and the New York State Office of the Inspector General.   Mark Anderson shares his extensive background in interviewing and training, emphasizing the significance of listening skills in communication and relationships.   Mark discusses updating his curriculum with the latest interviewing research and explains his process for identifying client needs in interview training.   Mark shares his habit of reviewing current research to stay effective in training and offers advice on understanding others and focusing on people over the business.   He highlights the importance of caring for the people who matter most and staying safe in professional and personal life.    Website: Anderson Investigate Associates  LinkedIn

Cayla Craft, the host of the Mommy Millionaire Podcast, is a self-made millionaire, bestselling author, and lifestyle entrepreneur.   Cayla discovered network marketing and fell in love with health and wellness supplements.   By age 31, she had four companies and had shifted from nursing to entrepreneurship, with three kids at the time.   She emphasized that "you get what you tolerate," which motivated her to pursue a new career path and build her own business.   In 2019, she launched a mastermind group for ambitious women, which, despite the name "Mommy Millionaire," also includes women without children.   Cayla emphasizes the importance of collaboration and being part of a strong network in accelerating business growth.   Kayla highlights the importance of consistency in business - small, everyday actions add up over time and lead to long-term success.   Website: Cayla Craft  Instagram: cayla.craft  YouTube: Cayla Craft   Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets

Judy Schramm founded ProResource, a social media agency dedicated to helping CEOs enhance their online presence and achieve their business goals through effective personal branding.   Judy discusses how ProResource is her fourth business and how it evolved from a marketing and PR firm.   ProResource helps CEOs establish a strong personal presence on social media, particularly LinkedIn.   Judy emphasizes that LinkedIn is a vital tool for executives that helps CEOs streamline their social media activity to achieve a valuable impact with minimal time spent.   She shares that worrying about potential problems wastes energy and that it’s important to trust the process and enjoy the entrepreneurship journey.   Moreover, Judy advocates following key individuals, companies, and topics on LinkedIn to ensure your news feed is filled with relevant updates.   Website: ProResource  LinkedIn: Judy Schramm   Previous Episode: iam178-ceo-helps-entrepreneurs-create-strong-personal-presence-online   Check out our CEO Hack Bu

Gresham discusses how stepping away from your business—whether for vacation or other reasons—can be a sign of a healthy business.   He shares his experiences shaped his entrepreneurial spirit and desire to connect with others. Gresham discusses the importance of building a media presence in today’s business world, stating that every entrepreneur is essentially in the media business.   He emphasizes that entrepreneurs should not try to be everywhere, but focus on strategic, targeted approaches that help them connect with their ideal clients.   The conversation highlights the value of joining groups like the I AM The Brand Business Accelerator to learn from others, ask questions, and find mentorship and accountability.   Podcast Link: WellNest Global   Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you

Gresham Harkless discusses the importance of knowing your target market, their evolving needs, and outlines key questions that define business success and resource allocation.   He emphasizes the importance of market research, understanding ideal clients, and explores strategies for creating content that resonates with your audience.   In addition, he highlights the importance of focusing on one or two platforms for effective content delivery and highlights the significance of authenticity in engaging with your audience.   Podcast Link: Mission Matters Marketing with Adam Torres   Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless emphasizes the importance of providing value in cold outreach, similar to a social media strategy.   Gresham discusses the need to understand the target audience deeply: "What keeps them up at night?" This understanding helps ensure that outreach is relevant and helpful, which leads to a win-win situation.   He highlights that businesses often resist change, sticking to what’s familiar, even when it’s clear that new methods can bring more success.   He also points out that many businesses fail because they focus too much on the "how" and not enough on the strategy behind their marketing.    Gresham emphasizes that it requires consistent strategy, quality content, and proper integration of branding and marketing tactics to be successful.   Gresham Harkless explains that SEO isn’t just about keywords and backlinks; it’s about user experience.   Furthermore, he highlights that businesses need to create a seamless, positive experience for users, as this is a fundamental p

Sean Douglas is a former U.S. Air Force member, three-time TEDx speaker, and an expert in resilience, leadership, and business positioning.   Sean is also the host of two podcasts (Create, Launch, Monetize, and From No Worth to Self Worth) and a two-time bestselling author.   He is also working on establishing an equine therapy ranch for veterans suffering from PTSD and anxiety in Michigan, a project driven by his desire to give back to fellow veterans.   Sean emphasizes the responsibility of creators to provide value through media platforms, not just for self-promotion but to spotlight the achievements of others and contribute to the betterment of the world.   Sean shares a key piece of advice: fail forward. It's crucial to be comfortable with failure and to keep growing from experiences. He also recommends embracing discomfort to reach new heights. Website: The Success Corps  LinkedIn: Sean Douglas -  Instagram: @thesuccesscorps   Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks a

Marielle Chartier Hénault is the founder of Aqua Mermaid, which offers unique mermaid swimming experiences in the U.S. and Canada. Inspired by a mermaid school in Germany, she started her own after realizing public interest.   Marielle discusses the growth of her business from a single school to multiple locations and product offerings, including adaptations during COVID-19.   She emphasizes the importance of tolerating risk when starting a business.   Despite skepticism from others about the viability of her business, Marielle stayed confident in the niche market for mermaid performers.   Marielle highlights the importance of keeping track of finances, particularly understanding where money comes and goes.   Website: AquaMermaid  LinkedIn: Marielle Chartier Hénault   Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100

Ishveen Anand is the CEO and founder of OpenSponsorship, a platform that connects brands with athletes in the $140 billion sponsorship industry.   Ishveen shares her journey into sports sponsorship, which began when she became a sports agent in 2009.   She recognized the challenges in securing sponsorship deals and was inspired to create a more efficient and accessible solution through technology.   OpenSponsorship uses IBM's Watson AI to facilitate connections between brands and athletes, prioritizing genuine interests rather than just financial incentives.   Ishveen emphasizes the importance of understanding what athletes are passionate about in promoting authentic partnerships and shifting away from traditional sponsorship approaches.   Ishveen shares advice on acquiring strategies and productivity tools for business owners and reflects on the importance of being aggressive and adapting quickly in business.   Website: OpenSponsorship   Previous Episode: iam177-ceo-and-founder-breaks-down-barriers-in-sponso

Zach Messler is a product marketing expert focused on helping businesses adapt their messaging to resonate with modern consumers.   Zach has 20 years of experience in product marketing, particularly in tech, and specializes in translating technical concepts for non-technical audiences.   He started his business after realizing that traditional marketing methods were no longer effective and wanted to help more people beyond his previous role.   His passion for product marketing energizes his clients and makes the process of developing their messaging more engaging and effective.   Zach shares a strategy he calls "CPR" (Create, Publish, Repeat) to encourage consistent content creation.   He emphasizes the importance of having a purpose behind the content and to keep creating even when it feels slow.   The conversation highlights the importance of being clear and straightforward in communication.   Website: Zach Messler  LinkedIn: Zach Messler   Previous Episode: iam171-entrepreneurs-helps-companies-evolve-their

Gresham Harkless shares his reflections about the timing of his business decisions, which were influenced by significant life changes, and decided to take the leap into franchising.   He discusses the importance of faith and believing that things will work out when starting a new venture.   Gresham mentions that opportunities often come from within your network, and entrepreneurs should make their businesses known to family, friends, and acquaintances.   Gresham also discusses using a CRM (HubSpot, branded as "Boss" for franchise brokers) to manage leads and track progress as part of the 8-step process in franchise brokerage.   He shares how he managed the challenges with the help of his team, explaining the importance of having a supportive team to execute and support business ventures.   Moreover, he highlights the importance of choosing foundational businesses to support multiple ventures, like digital marketing, which has served as the foundation for other businesses in his portfolio.   Check out our CE

Gresham Harkless discusses using the 12-week-year methodology to help him stay focused and execute effectively.    This approach summarizes a year's goals into 12 weeks, fostering a sense of urgency and accountability.   He shares that even when he doesn't hit every goal, the system helps him stay mindful of the activities that truly move the needle.   Gresh considers the emotional challenges faced during the startup process, including personal losses.   Gresham credits BNI (Business Network International) with helping him stay accountable and consistently present his business to others, which was crucial during the early stages of growing his digital marketing company.   Gresham discusses the complexity of balancing a 9-to-5 job (or main business) with side projects like starting a franchise.   In addition, he shares an important tip for networking in any organization—seek out people who are having the same kinds of conversations you're having.   Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com   Browse the Franc

On this special episode, Gresham Harkless, the founder of Blue Star Franchise and Blue16 Media, shares an update about his ongoing franchise journey.    He shares his experiences and lessons learned as a franchise broker and how this process relates to starting a new business.   Gresham highlights the emotional roller-coaster in starting something new, including excitement, fear, and imposter syndrome.   He explains that one of the biggest challenges he faced (and that others face when starting a business) is simply getting started and mentions that taking that first step is crucial, even though it might seem daunting.   Gresham emphasizes the importance of consistent action and the ability to pivot when necessary.   He discusses the concept of the “Minimum Viable Product” (MVP), drawing on lessons from the book The Lean Startup.   Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com   Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise   Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchis

Ryn Gargulinski is an award-winning author, artist, and speaker dedicated to helping others live freely and joyfully.   She founded the Sanctuary of the Wild Souls which aimed at guiding individuals to rise above mediocrity and reach higher states of consciousness.   Ryn has written over ten books, including her memoir How to Get Through Hell on Earth Without Drinking a Keg or Kicking a Garden Gnome.   Ryn emphasizes helping people reconnect with their true selves and break free from self-imposed limitations.   She explains that her work is driven by personal experiences, and she channels insights from her spirit self when writing.   Ryn also stresses the importance of establishing a sanctuary for the soul daily to set a positive tone.   In addition, Ryn highlights the need to remain open to possibilities rather than being fixated on specific desires. LinkedIn: Ryn Gargulinski  Website: Sanctuary of the Wild Souls   Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to lev

Lauren Young Durbin, a career clarity coach, concentrates on helping mid-career women find fulfilling careers.   Lauren's business, Tyche Coaching, is named after the Greek goddess of fortune and fate, aligning with her mission to empower women.   She helps clients overcome the "wall of shoulds"—societal expectations about careers—to discover what they genuinely want.   Lauren emphasizes the importance of practical and tactical planning, ensuring clients can pursue their dreams without jeopardizing their financial stability.   Lauren highlights her ability to listen to both what is said and what is unsaid, allowing her to help clients uncover great insights.   Furthermore, she points out that everyone has inherent greatness, and small accomplishments can lead to significant impact. LinkedIn: Lauren Young Durbin Esq. Website: Tyche Career Coaching   Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 

In this episode, we have Jay Gibb founder and CEO of CloudSponge, a B2B SaaS company specializing in address book importing solutions.   Jay started his career as a software engineer and later became a partner at a software development agency.   He identified a gap in the market for a specific software tool that allows users to access their address books seamlessly while staying on a website, leading to the creation of CloudSponge 8 years ago.   CloudSponge helps users easily access and share address book records from various platforms (like Google Contacts and Outlook) without leaving the website they are on.   Jay discusses the benefits of hiring a podcast agent (Interview Valet) to manage outreach and scheduling, allowing him to focus on core business responsibilities.   Jay shares that he believes in "firing himself" from roles as soon as he becomes proficient, allowing him to focus on strategic growth and hiring specialists for various tasks.    Website: CloudSponge LinkedIn: Jay Gibb   Previous Episode:

Oasis Day Spa, founded by Bruce Schoenberg in 1998, fosters a unified team mindset and provides top-notch services like massage therapy and skincare.   He attributes the success of Oasis Day Spa to his dedicated team, highlighting that a strong workforce is essential for business longevity.   Bruce emphasizes that a motivated and engaged staff enhances customer experience and satisfaction.   Bruce highlights the value of seeking input from staff, vendors, and customers to improve services and adapt to market changes.   Moreover, Bruce points out the need for integrity and clear communication with employees and customers. He believes trust is foundational for lasting success.    Website: Oasis Day Spa  LinkedIn: Bruce Schoenberg  Facebook: Bruce Schoenberg   Previous Episode: iam169-entrepreneur-runs-an-award-winning-spa-in-westchester-ny   Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE an

Gresham Harkless identifies the particular attributes of the ideal customer, including demographics, interests, and pain points.   Gresham discusses the importance of answering three foundational questions and defining success for different businesses.    The conversation highlights authenticity and transparency in content creation, encouraging individuals to be themselves and share their journey authentically for human connection.   Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!